Giverny (Fondation Claude Monet), Paris - a large building with a lot of trees in front of it
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Fondation Claude Monet Giverny

4.6
·24k reviews·Giverny, France

Step into Claude Monet's vibrant world at his Giverny home and gardens, a breathtaking canvas of flowers, water lilies, and the iconic Japanese bridge...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Opening Hours (9:30 AM)

Beat tour groups & enjoy tranquility

CrowdLow
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Giverny (Fondation Claude Monet), Paris - a large building with a lot of trees in front of it

Fondation Claude Monet Giverny

Best Time

Opening Hours (9:30 AM)

Beat tour groups & enjoy tranquility

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into Claude Monet's vibrant world at his Giverny home and gardens, a breathtaking canvas of flowers, water lilies, and the iconic Japanese bridge that inspired his masterpieces.

4.6
(24k reviews)

"This felt like walking into his paintings in real life, a truly breathtaking and immersive experience.TikTok+1"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your 'fondation monet in giverny tickets' in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during busy seasons .

🚲 Rent a Bike in Vernon

Enjoy a scenic 20-minute ride from Vernon-Giverny station to the gardens. It's a popular and enjoyable option .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Water Lily Pond & Japanese Bridge

The Water Lily Pond & Japanese Bridge

Gardens

Step into Monet's most famous paintings. The iconic green Japanese bridge, weeping willows, and vibrant water lilies create a breathtaking, immersive scene.TikTok

Monet's House & Studio

Monet's House & Studio

House

Explore the artist's vibrant home, from the blue sitting room to the yellow dining room, filled with his personal collection of Japanese prints and art.

Clos Normand Flower Garden

Clos Normand Flower Garden

Gardens

Wander through a riot of color and fragrance in this meticulously designed garden, a living canvas that inspired many of Monet's floral works.Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Book Ahead

To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Fondation Claude Monet Giverny, aim for an early morning visit, especially during peak season like summer. Tour buses from Paris tend to arrive mid-morning, so getting there at opening can offer a more serene experience. Always book your 'fondation monet in giverny tickets' online in advance to skip lines and ensure entry, as timed tickets are common.Reddit+1

Getting There: Train, Bike, or Bus?

Your journey to Fondation Monet in Giverny France is part of the adventure! The most popular route involves a train from Paris Gare St. Lazare to Vernon-Giverny, followed by a shuttle bus or a scenic bike ride along the river. Consider a bike rental at Vernon station for a charming 20-minute ride, highly recommended by many travelers.Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Opening Hours (9:30 AM)
Why
Beat tour groups & enjoy tranquility
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon (after 4 PM)
Why
Crowds thin out, softer light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
May-June & September
Why
Peak bloom, pleasant weather
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

this felt like walking into his paintings irl 🪷 #foryou #monet #impressionism #museums #arthistory #claudemonet #givernyfrance
@curatorialjes
183.7K likes • 825.8K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your 'fondation monet in giverny tickets' in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during busy seasons.Reddit

🚲 Rent a Bike in Vernon

Enjoy a scenic 20-minute ride from Vernon-Giverny station to the gardens. It's a popular and enjoyable option.Reddit+1

Would you visit this place? 🌹🌸🌻🌼 How many times have you visited Paris and never had this destination on your itinerary? 🙋🏼‍♀️ Claude Monet’s Gardens are one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever...
@travelwithanika
156.6K likes • 1.2M views
Monet’s House and Gardens just re-opened 🪷🌸🌼🌻Book your tickets now ✨ to avoid the crowds 🥰 Open from April 1st - November 1st and only 1 hour outside of Paris this is an absolute must-see if you’re co...
toniscaglione
36.3K likes • 518.3K views

⏰ Arrive Early or Late

Aim for opening or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day rush of tour buses and larger crowds.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking through extensive gardens and the house. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploration.

À vos agendas ! Le plus beau jardin et musée de l’impressionnisme rouvre ses portes le 1er avril 🌸 En bonus, il est à seulement 1h de Paris, l’escapade idéale pour un week-end loin de la ville… 📍Maiso...
hifromalix
17.4K likes • 199.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your 'fondation monet in giverny tickets' in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during busy seasons.Reddit

🚲 Rent a Bike in Vernon

Enjoy a scenic 20-minute ride from Vernon-Giverny station to the gardens. It's a popular and enjoyable option.Reddit+1

⏰ Arrive Early or Late

Aim for opening or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day rush of tour buses and larger crowds.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking through extensive gardens and the house. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploration.

📸 Capture the Light

Monet was obsessed with light. Pay attention to how it changes the gardens throughout your visit for unique photos.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(24k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Fondation Claude Monet Giverny, describing it as an immersive experience that feels like stepping into Monet's paintings. The vibrant gardens and the iconic Water Lily Pond are highlights, though some note that summer crowds can detract from the tranquility, especially in the house. Overall, it's considered a must-see day trip from Paris for art and nature lovers.

"Absolutely beautiful but very very crowded.
The gardens are very easy to walk with wonderful displays of flowers. The lake is spectacular
The house is easy to navigate and quite lovely we had approximately a 15 min queue to enter.
I would advise you to buy tickets on line before hand the queues for tickets were massive. We got on line tickets so had no wait time. Parking is plentiful and free.
There's a good choice of restaurants and cafes just outside the gardens they are quite pricey."

Marie Pailing

"Honest review: it’s busy! Be prepared to queue.
We went mid August (2025)…my biggest tip - book an E-ticket! There is a separate door for pre booked tickets - this saved about an hours queue today.
There is plenty of free parking across the road - walk under the underpass & up to the house.
The gardens are beautiful - the house is interesting.
The pond is under another underpass with a narrow stair case either side - I witnessed buggies & elderly struggling - however I did not see an alternative.
The paths are narrow & again, busy - having said this I recommend a visit - the flowers are stunning.
Take a drink - it can get hot & there is only a water vending machine at the exit (€2 per bottle - & again another queue) toilets are available at the exit also.
There is a large gift shop at the end.
Lots of restaurants & cafes local to the garden. The museum is not included in the garden & house price."

Cot A

"I wish I could give this 10 stars this was the most beautiful and amazing place I have ever seen. The gardens are stunning! So many hundreds of different flowers and colors and the gorgeous water with lily ponds! The flowers and bamboo trees are sweetened with a gorgeous Japaneses bridge. Walkways through unending trestles and flowers. Moneys house is a joy as well, filled with paintings and prints and painted such beautiful and vivid colors. The windows look out to vistas of beautiful gardens. His biggest studio, where he painted his huge water lilies paintings, has been converted into a large gift shop. There are toilets and you can purchase all sorts of gifts. This was one of the best experiences of my life"

Naomi Sprung

What People Like

Breathtaking gardens
Iconic Water Lily Pond
Monet's colorful house

What People Dislike

Summer crowds
House can feel cramped

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Fondation Monet in Giverny France is by taking a train from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny station. From Vernon, you can catch a shuttle bus directly to Giverny, which runs regularly, or rent a bike for a picturesque ride along the river.Reddit+2 Some travelers also opt for organized tour buses from Paris.Reddit+1

Yes, public transportation is quite straightforward. After arriving at Vernon-Giverny station by train, the shuttle bus stop is just outside, and it will take you directly to the village where the Fondation Claude Monet Giverny is located at 84 Rue Claude Monet.Reddit+1 Bike rentals are also readily available right at the station.Reddit

While there might be local taxis waiting outside Vernon-Giverny station, ride-sharing services like Uber or G7 might be less reliable or harder to find compared to Paris. Many recommend the shuttle bus or bike rental as the most convenient options.Reddit+1

Yes, you can visit Fondation Monet Giverny on a Sunday, but be aware that public transit options, particularly train schedules from Paris, might be more limited compared to weekdays. It's crucial to check train times in advance to plan your journey effectively.Reddit

The train ride from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny typically takes about 45-50 minutes. Add another 15-20 minutes for the shuttle bus or bike ride to the Fondation Claude Monet Giverny itself, making the total travel time roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes each way.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The best way to purchase your 'fondation monet in giverny tickets' is online through the official website. This allows you to select a timed entry slot and often provides a special entrance for pre-booked tickets, helping you bypass the main queue.Reddit

The Fondation Claude Monet Giverny is generally open from late March/early April to early November. Opening hours are typically from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry usually an hour before closing. Always check the official website for the most current operating hours and seasonal closures.

Don't panic if you're a little late for your reserved time slot for 'maison monet giverny tickets'. Many travelers report that while you might have to queue with those buying tickets on-site, you will likely still be admitted. It's generally not a strict entry time, but arriving close to your slot is always best.Reddit

Yes, if you've purchased your 'fondation monet giverny tickets' online, there is often a dedicated entrance for pre-booked tickets. This allows for a smoother and quicker entry into the gardens and house, saving you valuable time.Reddit

While a guide can add depth to your understanding of Monet's life and art, the Fondation Claude Monet Giverny is a relatively small and easy-to-navigate site. Many visitors find it perfectly enjoyable to explore at their own pace without a guide, soaking in the beauty independently.Reddit

🎫 🌸 Onsite Experience

The absolute must-sees at Monet Jardin de Giverny are the iconic Water Lily Pond with its Japanese bridge, which feels like 'walking into his paintings irl',TikTok and the vibrant Clos Normand flower garden. Don't miss exploring Monet's colorful house, especially his studio and collection of Japanese prints.

Most visitors spend between 2 to 3 hours exploring the gardens and Monet's house. This allows ample time to wander through the Clos Normand, admire the Water Lily Pond, and tour the interior of the house without feeling rushed. If you plan to visit the nearby Museum of Impressionisms, allocate more time.

The gardens at Fondation Claude Monet Giverny are generally accessible, with mostly flat paths. However, some areas might have gravel or uneven surfaces. Monet's house has stairs, which can be a challenge for wheelchair users. It's advisable to check the official website for specific accessibility information.

There is a restaurant and a snack bar on-site at the Fondation Claude Monet Giverny, offering light meals, snacks, and refreshments. You'll also find several charming cafes and restaurants in the village of Giverny itself, perfect for a post-visit lunch.

Beyond the Fondation Claude Monet Giverny, the charming village offers the Museum of Impressionisms Giverny, dedicated to the history of Impressionism in the region. You can also explore local art galleries, gift shops, and enjoy the quiet, picturesque streets, especially after the main crowds have left.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The Japanese bridge over the Water Lily Pond is undoubtedly the most iconic photo spot, offering a chance to capture the scene that inspired Monet's masterpieces. Other fantastic locations include the vibrant pathways of the Clos Normand flower garden and the colorful exterior of Monet's house. Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions.

Generally, tripods are not permitted inside Monet's house due to space constraints and to protect the exhibits. In the gardens, small, handheld tripods or monopods might be tolerated, but large professional setups could be restricted, especially during crowded times. Always be mindful of other visitors.

Photography without flash is usually allowed inside Monet's house, but it's always best to confirm with staff or signage upon entry. Be respectful of the space and other visitors, and avoid using flash to preserve the artworks and ambiance.

To capture photos without too many people, aim to visit the Fondation Claude Monet Giverny right at opening or in the late afternoon. Focus on close-up shots of flowers and water lilies, or use angles that minimize background crowds. Patience is key, waiting for brief lulls in visitor traffic.Reddit

For the most spectacular flower photography at Monet Jardin de Giverny, plan your visit for late spring (May-June) when many varieties are in full bloom, or early autumn (September) for a different palette of colors. The Water Lily Pond is beautiful throughout the open season.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fondation Claude Monet Giverny can be a wonderful experience for families, offering open spaces for children to explore and a chance to see art come to life. The vibrant colors of the 'monet jardin de giverny' and the famous Water Lily Pond are often captivating for younger visitors.

Tips for Families:
- Pack snacks and drinks: While there are cafes, having your own can save time and money.
- Engage them with a 'scavenger hunt': Look for specific flowers, colors, or the famous Japanese bridge.
- Consider a stroller for younger children: The paths are mostly flat, but there's a lot of walking.
- Visit early: To avoid the biggest crowds and allow kids more space to roam.Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Fondation Monet in Giverny France doesn't have to break the bank. Smart planning can significantly reduce costs.

Budget-Friendly Tips:
- Public Transport: Taking the train from Paris to Vernon and then the shuttle bus or renting a bike is far more economical than organized tours.Reddit+1
- Pack a Picnic: Instead of eating at the on-site restaurant or village cafes, bring your own lunch to enjoy in a nearby park or on the train.
- Book 'fondation monet in giverny tickets' online: This often avoids higher prices at the gate and ensures you get the best available rate.
- Avoid guides: The site is small enough to enjoy without a paid guide.Reddit

💖 Couples & Romantics

Fondation Claude Monet Giverny offers an incredibly romantic setting, perfect for couples seeking beauty and inspiration. The serene Water Lily Pond and the vibrant flower gardens create an idyllic backdrop for shared moments.

Romantic Recommendations:
- Stroll hand-in-hand: Wander through the gardens, finding quiet nooks away from the main paths.
- Capture the moment: The picturesque scenery is ideal for couple photos.
- Consider an evening stay: 'Stay the night there, instead of just a day trip. the village is so quiet and lovely when the crowds...'.Reddit
- Enjoy a meal in Giverny: The village has charming restaurants for a romantic lunch or dinner.

🎨 Art & Photography Enthusiasts

For those passionate about art and photography, Fondation Claude Monet Giverny is a dream destination. It's a unique opportunity to witness the very landscapes that inspired one of the greatest Impressionist painters.

Tips for Enthusiasts:
- Study Monet's work beforehand: Understanding his use of light and color will enhance your appreciation of the gardens.TikTok
- Observe the light: Pay attention to how the light changes throughout the day, just as Monet did, especially around the Water Lily Pond.
- Bring a good camera: While phone cameras are great, a dedicated camera will capture the nuances of color and detail in the 'monet jardin de giverny'.
- Focus on details: Look for specific flower varieties, reflections, and textures that might have caught Monet's eye.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Monet's Artistic Sanctuary

The Fondation Claude Monet Giverny is more than just a garden; it's a living testament to the artist's vision and his profound connection to nature. Monet spent over 40 years here, meticulously cultivating his gardens to serve as his primary source of inspiration. He famously said, 'My most beautiful masterpiece is my garden,' and walking through it, you truly understand why.TikTok The interplay of light, color, and reflection in the Water Lily Pond, or 'monet jardin de giverny', directly informed his revolutionary Impressionist paintings. It's an experience that allows you to literally step into his world and see the landscapes that shaped his art.

The Journey to Giverny: A Day Trip Essential

For many, a visit to the Fondation Monet in Giverny France is a quintessential day trip from Paris. The journey itself is part of the charm, often involving a scenic train ride to Vernon, followed by a delightful shuttle or bike ride through the Norman countryside. Travelers frequently praise the bike option, noting the enjoyable path along the river.Reddit While organized tours offer convenience, many Redditors suggest that taking public transport and exploring independently provides more flexibility and a more authentic experience. Remember to check train schedules, especially for Sunday visits, as they can be less frequent.Reddit

Beyond the Gardens: Monet's Private World

Stepping inside Monet's house at 84 Rue Claude Monet Giverny offers a rare glimpse into the artist's private life. Each room, from the vibrant yellow dining room to the blue sitting room, is preserved as it was during his time, showcasing his personal taste and extensive collection of Japanese prints. These prints, a significant influence on his work, are displayed throughout the house, offering insight into his artistic inspirations beyond the garden. The house provides a personal connection to Monet, complementing the grandeur of his outdoor canvases.

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